The Monarch, at one time a fine frigate-built ship of 1450 tons, was launched from Green's yard at Blackwall in 1844, and at that time was owned by R. Green. She was in the Australian trade for many years. Early in the 'sixties she was purchased by Mr. Savill, and was one of the first Ships owned by the Shaw, Savill. The Monarch made two voyages only to New Zealand. She came to Auckland in 1866, in command of Captain Macey, arriving on July 26, to the great relief of friends of passengers and consignees, after an eventful passage of 151 days.

On this voyage the Monarch was not a dry craft in more senses than one, as before a fortnight had elapsed some brandy was broached. She was decidedly leaky, and this meant pumping once a watch, or in other words once every four hours. Towards the end of March the crew, who had been showing signs of unrest, flatly refused duty, saying it was unsafe to proceed further on the voyage in such a vessel.